Every human being is a unique combination of body, mind and spirit. This union is represented by the triple fleur-de-lis which stands for the present human experience- an indivisible triune of subjectivity, diversity, and connectivity. Subjectivity is the tendency to see all things in the light of one’s own thoughts and feelings. Without it, the state of expertise could not be reached. Diversity insures that man’s full scope of creative abilities are utilized. Connectivity binds subjectivity and diversity together. Without it achievement and growth would be limited. Each portal of perception is balanced by its opposite. In 2009, worldwide, 1.85 million dollars were spent in warfare per minute while 15 people starved to death during the same period. Lao Tsu who rides the water buffalo illustrates the Taoistic principle of gradual slow growth while the opposing principle of Maoism forces the change. Christianity presents “love one another” as the main tenet of its belief and contradicts the wall of segregation which emphasizes the superiority of one race. Crime opposes compassion, healing and wisdom. The tree whose branches stretch to undetermined heights represents those who strive to make life greater, contrary to those who lack initiative to move from one place and change. The three figures on a higher plane view the scenes below from a bird’s eye perspective. They understand the interconnectedness of all beliefs as parts of a whole and no longer view it as good or bad. All knowledge is woven into the fabric of life that surrounds us, yet only when we are able to look out of all windows are we able to perceive it in its entirety. The universe symbolizes the future and presents new dimensions filled with infinite possibilities.

​ (The original painting is from the private collection of William Epp of Charlottesville, Virginia.) Reproductions are available in our gift shop.